Hello Spring Ballplayers,

Welcome to the first spring edition of ‘Clearing the Bases’, our monthly column that covers everything softball. Following the long winter, which I hope included plenty of off-season conditioning, I imagine you’re ready to swing into the season. Me too. In fact, the super major season has already started, and many other leagues are primed to hit diamonds around the country. Let’s play ball!

As play heats up it’s important to remember some tips surrounding spring ball. I think the biggest thing to remember after a long winter is to be sure that you’re ready to play a full schedule. Keep in mind you’re going to be hitting the field weekend in, weekend out for months at a time. And to make sure you’ll be able to maintain, be sure to let any nagging injuries heal. Trust me, the last thing you want to feel on opening day is a tender hamstring. Take care of any last minute things and get ready to roll.

As far the Super Major world, things are looking up after a dismal winter that saw the ASA and NSA cancel their super major programs. The first big tourney of the season is the USSSA Spring Classic in Kissimmee, FL, running April 21-23. This is always a fun tourney and this year we’re excited as it will actually take place at the Houston Astros spring training facility.

A variety of teams are going to contend for this year’s title and, due to the many off season moves and transactions, we’re going to see a ton of new faces on each team, which should add excitement for both fans and sponsors. There are no guaranteed titles, and I’d say there are 8-10 teams that could capture any given tourney. Also, keep an eye out for ‘A’ teams this season as I’m predicting that level will be the best it’s ever been (ex-major guys are on board and the teams have better budgets).

Also, the Easton Hooters Bomb Squad Home Run Challenge is back after a fantastic ’05. A handful of super major sluggers including myself will be taking cuts at some of the best big league parks in the country (hitting softballs supplied by Dudley). And if last year’s event was any preview, we hope to set some new tape measure records while continuing to bring the excitement of softball to the masses across the nation. As an added bonus this year, we’re inviting all of you big boppers out there to compete with us. The night prior to our scheduled hitting exhibition, local softball sluggers will be invited to a local homerun derby (up to 75 participants can enter for a small fee). The winner at the local competition will then hit the following night with our squad at the pro stadium in front of thousands of fans. The action kicks off May 27 at Comerica Park in Detroit, home of last year’s All-Star game. Be sure to check www.eastonsports.com for the latest updates regarding the tour and how to enter the local competitions.

As far as equipment for spring ball, make sure you’ve got some quality footwear. And more importantly, make sure those spikes or turfs are broken in. There’s nothing worse than breaking in new cleats the first day of a weekend tourney, only to blister up and have to wear them again the next day. Your dogs are going to be barking all week. Start breaking in your spikes now by wearing them in batting practice and during league nights.

Now a few of your letters…

Brett – I’m a native Floridian who loves softball. Is our state the biggest in terms of participation? Johnny – Orlando, FL

Hey Johnny, I can’t give you exact stats, but Florida is definitely one of the most popular softball states along with Ohio, Michigan and Texas. All of those states have huge softball registrations. Of course your great weather down there helps out!

Brett – How long has super major softball been around? Richard – Portland, OR

Hey Richard, the ASA started it all in the 60s and 70s. However, the sport experienced its heyday in the late 80s/early 90s when a there were a ton of great teams and sponsorship was plentiful. My sincere hope is that we will return the sport to this level of play and excitement in the near future!

Until next time, be sure to let the winter injuries heal, break in those new cleats, and check out the Easton Bomb Squad Home Run Challenge when it heads to your town!

Brett